ILOILO CITY – The “Flavors of Iloilo” cookbook by chef Rafael “Tibong” Javier Jardeleza Jr. emerged as the Best Book on Food in the 41st National Book Awards.
THE Flavors of Iloilo cookbook and its author Rafael 'Tibong' Javier Jardeleza Jr. (Tara Yap)
Flavors of Iloilo won over two others finalists for capturing the Ilonggo's heart, soul, and spirit.
The National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Manila Critics Circle (MCC) said the cookbook “reflects the people's love for food and eating, as well as their artistry, their resourcefulness, and respect for culinary traditions.”
Jardeleza, a recipient of the Manila Bulletin UPLIFT Award 2023 for advocating Ilonggo heritage cuisine, consistently emphasized that the cookbook belongs to all Ilonggos.
The 208-page cookbook features heirloom and modern recipes and highlights agricultural and fishery products of Iloilo province that became key ingredients in Ilonggo cooking.
“In a landscape where many food researchers view cookbooks as mere compilations of recipes, Flavors of Iloilo distinguishes itself by exhibiting a clear agenda evident in its selection of dishes, photography, and food presentation,” said Noel de Leon, publisher of Kasingkasing Press and the nominator of the cookbook.
The cookbook was published in 2022 by the Iloilo City government in partnership with the Western Visayas regional office of the Department of Agriculture (DA), Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI), J.S. Layson & Co., and SM City Iloilo.
The cookbook was a collaborative endeavor, with Mickey Fenix as editor, Ige Ramos as creative director, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle Editor AA Patawaran as the afterword writer, Joshua Enriquez as photographer, and John Marie Chaves for recipe production.
Flavors of Iloilo topped finalists “Filipino Vegan: Recipes and Stories to Stir Up Filipino Flavors and Perspectives” by RG Enriquez-Diez and “My Ranaw Kitchen Lab: Food for Peace in Muslim Mindanao” by Assad Baunto.
Winners were announced on December 9 and will be awarded in February.